“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Eddie Will Collins Sr. was the oldest of seven children born to the parentage of the late Izear Collins and the late Rachel Lee Jefferson. He was born Feb. 8, 1950, and he was called home to be with the Lord on May 2, 2017.

He united with the New Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Linza Cotton until God called him home. Eddie Will attended Wesley Ray High and was a member of the class of 1968. Eddie Will drove trucks for over 40 years, which he loved doing. He also truly enjoyed fishing with his grandchildren, a memory each of them will cherish forever in their hearts.

Eddie Will was married to the loving Elnora Martin Collins, and to this union five children were born.

Eddie Will leaves to cherish his memories his wife of 48 years, Mrs. Elnora Martin Collins; three daughters, Mrs. Marilyn (Zachary Sr.) Harry of San Diego, Calif., La’Kisha (June Sr.) Crumedy of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Mrs. Stephanie (Steven Sr.) Sherdian of Angie; two sons: Eddie Will Collins Jr. of Phoenix, Ariz., and Keith Collins of Lake Charles.

He leaves behind his pride and joy, and the ultimate reason for his happiness, 27 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and three more, soon to be delivered great-grandchildren. He leaves sisters, Cary May Harry, Carrie Lee Collins, Nita Sims, Lona Mae Collins, Jeanette Collins and Ernestine Smith; brothers, Jimmie McKenzie, Johnny Ray Weary, Johnny Ree Weary, Roosevelt Smith and Otis Paul Smith; step-father, Levon Jefferson; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Margie Ree Hewitt; brother, Izear Smith; mother-in-law, a true example of Godly love and wisdom, Birdie Mae Martin; and father-in-law, Joe Martin.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 20, at 1 p.m., with viewing from noon until 1 p.m. at New Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Varnado, with Dr. Linza Cotton officiating.

Sign the guest registry online at cookrichmondfuneralhome.com.